Collection: Iron Sword - An Important Element for Sword-Making Craftsmanship Evolution

Compared to steel swords, iron swords have significant flaws, but their production allows the sword makers to improve their skills and metal processing knowledge in various cultures around the world. 

If you have paid attention to the museum, you'll probably notice the swords made of iron, which played an important role in ancient battles! The most important historical significance of iron swords is their use before the progress in metallurgy, which allowed the production of stronger and more durable steel swords.

Iron Swords History

In the Iron Age around 1200 BCE, humanity started the iron weaponry production which marked the important transition from Bronze to Iron Age. At that time, swordmakers used bloomery smelting and heated iron with charcoal to create the swords. 

Even though iron swords were somewhat soft, these still were quite an improvement compared to bronze weapons, for their availability, ease of production, and affordability.

The Hittites, Egyptians, Greeks, and Celts used iron swords in their battles and daily life. However, the Celtic iron swords were the most advanced ones. They were also called La Tene swords and had distinct long, straight blades with leaf-shaped pommel. Additional motifs and decoration showcased the artistic preferences of the Celts.

Iron swords from the Roman Empire were called the Gladius swords. These were short, double-edge swords, best used in close combat.

During the Middle Ages, iron swords evolved into harder and more durable swords, which made the foundation for better, steel swords.

Historical Significance of Iron Swords

Iron swords were replaced with steel swords, but they have strong historical and cultural significance. They represent artifacts of ancient battles and sword making techniques. A lot of iron swords were discovered at archeological sites, which helped historians understand the social and industrial context of the time.

If you are interested in learning more about authentic iron swords, you can look in museums and historical reenactments. Passionate collectors keep authentic iron swords in their collection. Their price range is high, and they are difficult to track down because they are important historical items.

Iron Swords for Sale

Quality and provenance are important when buying any sword, not just iron. These swords are only for display, as high-carbon steel swords are better for practice. Still, iron swords look good as display pieces and make a standout accessory in cosplays. 

Modern reproduction of iron swords is a testament to evolving metallurgy and humanity craftsmanship.

FAQ

What is the most famous iron sword in history?

Roman gladius, the standard sword of the Roman legionaries, is a famous iron sword. 

How were iron swords made in the ancient times?

Iron swords were made during a specific heating process when the iron is heated with charcoal to get a flexible mass. The material is next hammered into the usable metal.

Iron vs steel swords, what is the difference?

Steel swords are stronger than iron blades, because of their unique material-specific properties. The production of steel swords and the steel itself, make the steel sword durable and resilient. It also offers excellent balance and weight distribution. The iron sword is soft and isn't as effective in combat as the steel sword.